How It Could Happen: Trade

Charlotte doesn't seem sold on D.J. Augustin as the long-term answer at point guard, and that could open the window of opportunity for Los Angeles to acquire his services.

The ninth overall pick from the 2008 draft, Augustin struggled in his first two seasons with the Bobcats before he seemingly turned a corner during the 2010-11 campaign.

After never averaging more than 3.5 assists per game, Augustin saw that number rise all the way to 6.1 last year. He also established career-high marks in points (14.4), free-throw percentage (90.6), rebounds (2.7) and steals (0.7).

Although he fell off in certain areas such as field-goal and three-point field-goal percentage, those were a direct result of taking more shots (11.7 per game) than he had in previous campaigns.

He wouldn't have the same offensive responsibilities in terms of scoring that he has assumed in Charlotte, and that could very well pave the path toward him becoming a more complete point guard.

How It Could Happen: Signing

The approximately $68 million the Lakers are on the hook for next season is somewhat deceiving.

As mentioned, Bryant and Gasol account for almost $47 million, but the combination of Metta World Peace (player option), Luke Walton, Steve Blake and Derek Fisher (player option) account for nearly $21 million.

While one of those players may very well be an amnesty cut casualty, the $68 million figure doesn't account for the $16.5 million team option on Andrew Bynum, nor does it take Lamar Odom's $8.2 team option into consideration.

Assuming the team keeps both players in the fold, that $68 million suddenly becomes a gargantuan $92.7 million, actually more than the 2011-12 total.

Without significant changes that would significantly shake up the salary owed within the group, the Lakers won't be able to afford this 2012 restricted free agent.

Chances of Lakers Winning a Championship with Augustin

As long as Bryant and Gasol are leading the charge for the Lakers, it's hard to imagine this team being out of the title picture completely.

Having said that, this is one of the oldest rosters in the league, and that isn't going to change as time moves forward.

There's no doubt that the Los Angeles championship window is only open for a little while longer as the club is currently constructed, and the team needs to capitalize on every opportunity possible while Bryant is still playing basketball.

Adding Augustin would be a welcome sight for fans who are desperate to see some production, but he would undoubtedly need time to build chemistry with his new teammates.

Although he's struggled at times in Charlotte, he hasn't exactly had a plethora of skilled players alongside him for much of that time.